Definition of stupendousnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word stupendous different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of stupendous are monstrous, prodigious, and tremendous. While all these words mean "extremely impressive," stupendous implies a power to stun or astound, usually because of size, numbers, complexity, or greatness beyond description.

a stupendous volcanic eruption

In what contexts can monstrous take the place of stupendous?

The words monstrous and stupendous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, monstrous implies a departure from the normal (as in size, form, or character) and often carries suggestions of deformity, ugliness, or fabulousness.

the monstrous waste of the project

When is prodigious a more appropriate choice than stupendous?

Although the words prodigious and stupendous have much in common, prodigious suggests a marvelousness exceeding belief, usually in something felt as going far beyond a previous maximum (as of goodness, greatness, intensity, or size).

made a prodigious effort and rolled the stone aside

Where would tremendous be a reasonable alternative to stupendous?

While in some cases nearly identical to stupendous, tremendous may imply a power to terrify or inspire awe.

the tremendous roar of the cataract

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of stupendous Steier’s clear writing and stupendous graphics from Sara Chodosh and Taylor Maggiacomo illuminate how vaccine critics and Kennedy allies David and Mark Geier have relied on a web of shoddy science — and gives readers tools for how to not fall for the anti-vaccine playbook. Stat Staff, STAT, 29 Dec. 2025 Ever since Derry Girls wrapped in 2022, all eyes have been trained on where next for the stupendous comic talent of Lisa McGee. Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 25 Dec. 2025 Designed to survey a large portion of the entire sky over and over, more deeply and in a speedier fashion than ever before, its science goals are stupendous. Big Think, 4 Nov. 2025 But Pullman’s abilities as a storyteller are stupendous, and on full display. Lev Grossman, The Atlantic, 23 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for stupendous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for stupendous
Adjective
  • But that is the context of a wonderful performance.
    Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, New York Times, 8 Apr. 2026
  • And serialization is a glorious, wonderful thing that happens automatically to a show that people love.
    Ryan Gajewski, HollywoodReporter, 7 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • And many contain an amazing assortment of super nutritious foods like quinoa, kale, beans and spinach.
    Sheah Rarback, Miami Herald, 9 Apr. 2026
  • Another thing that’s amazing to me about Asawa, and that Chase’s book reveals, is her relationship to her family and her community.
    The New Yorker, New Yorker, 8 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Everyone was understandably rattled, but no one was hurt in the mayhem, a frankly astonishing outcome for the alleged perpetrator.
    Joe Wilkins, Futurism, 9 Apr. 2026
  • Then family connections got him that astonishing first job at the heart of the Defense Ministry.
    Michael Sheridan, Vanity Fair, 8 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The Coast Guard, as is customary, sank the miraculous truck.
    Sarah Moreno, Miami Herald, 8 Apr. 2026
  • The Pornos were a slightly miraculous act of manifestation.
    Elizabeth Nelson, Pitchfork, 8 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The twists and turns would be marvelous!
    Zach Przystup, Baltimore Sun, 4 Apr. 2026
  • The most marvelous of all the vestments is a cope embroidered in a workshop in Genoa in the late 17th century.
    Sarah Kozlowski, Dallas Morning News, 21 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • What the staff and workers have done in this span of time has been incredible.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 5 Apr. 2026
  • As pontiff, Leo wields incredible power and influence — but in truth, the message isn’t new.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 5 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • While Survivor has plenty of surprising rules for contestants, socks are a small creature comfort that’s allowed.
    Brittany Anas, Entertainment Weekly, 11 Apr. 2026
  • This charming town on Lake Michigan has emerged as a surprising luxury hotspot, with 53 percent of listings now surpassing $1 million.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 11 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Leonardsen lives on the second floor of a concrete-and-glass building along the harbor, which has stunning views of the sea.
    Eric Klinenberg, New Yorker, 6 Apr. 2026
  • Today, The Retreat is known for its ultra-luxe accommodations, amenities such as afternoon tea, and stunning location.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Apr. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Stupendous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stupendous. Accessed 13 Apr. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on stupendous

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster